Ristorante Mamma Gina, Palm Springs

In a region crammed with Italian restaurants, this one has made a name for itself, winning numerous awards. The establishment was included in the Epicurean Magazine list of the top 100 restaurants in California. The calm, welcoming decor features contemporary plaster castings displayed like ancient Roman finds. The budget-conscious can try this spot at lunch, where pasta dishes and the grilled Panini sandwiches are a delight. At dinnertime, the Costola 'Alpina' is possibly the best-known dish, a thick broiled chop of veal in a mushroom medley sauce.